Langley RCMP investigating vandalism incident that closed a school earlier this week

LANGLEY – Police in Langley say they’re investigating an incident of vandalism that caused a local elementary school to temporarily close earlier this week.

According to a statement from Langley RCMP spokesperson Sergeant Zynal Sharoom, police responded to a mischief complaint at Noel Booth Elementary School on Monday, Nov. 9. The school is located at 20202 35 Avenue in Langley Township.

Investigators have learned that on Saturday, November 7, four individuals unlawfully gained access to the school property and deployed fire extinguishers inside the building, Sgt. Sharoom said.

Langley RCMP say they are working with the Lower Mainland Integrated Forensics Investigations Services to further the investigation.

At this time the motive behind this incident is unknown, police said.

“We are asking for anyone in the public who has any information about this incident to contact the Langley RCMP and speak with our investigators,” Sgt. Sharoom said.

Administrative staff at the elementary school notified parents that the school would be closed Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 9-10, due to vandalism inside the school. An email to parents said the incident resulted in an unsafe learning environment, and a restoration crews spent Monday working with district maintenance staff to return spaces to their original state, but additional time would be need. The email stated parents would be notified on Tuesday, Nov. 10 about any updates.